Report: Miami police officer fired in gambling investigation

Report: Officer provided protection for sports gambling business

MIAMI – A Miami Police officer was fired Tuesday following an internal affairs and FBI investigation into his alleged involvement in a sports gambling operation, according to a published report.

The Miami Herald reported a source with knowledge of the investigation said one officer has been relieved of duty and as many as six could be arrested pending the outcome of the investigation.

"I have heard that some were under investigation, but such (small) a number, not a very high number," said Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado.

Regalado said he doesn't have all the facts, but the Miami Herald has reported a law enforcement source said the officers may have provided protection for a Liberty City sports gambling operation.

According to the newspaper, "Surveillance, in an unincorporated area of Liberty City, led to the spotting of a Miami officer who allegedly showed up regularly to protect the illicit business."

The FBI issued a statement to Local 10, saying, "The FBI does not confirm or deny the existence of investigations."

No one from Miami Police headquarters has been willing to discuss the investigation on the record.